U.S. patent application number 11/008038 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-19 for bimodal flexible-rigid hose.
Invention is credited to King, Ray, Rosenbaum, Samuel, Shamir, Menashe.
Application Number | 20050103903 11/008038 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29740095 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050103903 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shamir, Menashe ; et
al. |
May 19, 2005 |
Bimodal flexible-rigid hose
Abstract
The present invention provides a flexible hose easily converted
to a rigid hose. The flexible-rigid bimodal hose comprises a
plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members defining a tube
having a first end, a second end, and an elongated hollow. A
flexible tube as well as a cable pass through the hollow and extend
therethrough. The cable acts as a means to apply tension on the
hollow members. The hose has a flexible state in which each one of
the hollow members is rotating in respect to neighboring hollow
member and a rigid state in which the hollow members are forced
together by the cable so that there is no relative movement between
neighboring hollow members. An actuation means, which can be
mechanically or hydraulically operated, is adapted to apply
different tensile forces on the cable.
Inventors: |
Shamir, Menashe; (Kiryat
Bialik, IL) ; King, Ray; (Nesher, IL) ;
Rosenbaum, Samuel; (Kiryat Tivon, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Angenehm Law Firm, Ltd.
P.O. Box 48755
Coon Rapids
MN
55448-0755
US
|
Family ID: |
29740095 |
Appl. No.: |
11/008038 |
Filed: |
December 9, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
239/587.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03C 1/0408 20130101;
F16L 11/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
239/587.2 |
International
Class: |
F23D 011/38 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 3, 2003 |
WO |
PCT/IL03/00466 |
Claims
1. A flexible-rigid bimodal hose, said bimodal hose comprising: a
plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members defining a hose
having a first end, a second end, and an elongated hollow; at least
one flexible tube passing along said plurality of adjacently
engaged hollow members; a tensional means extending from said first
end to said second end, wherein said tensional means have a first
low tension state in which each one of said plurality of adjacently
engaged hollow members is rotating in respect to neighboring hollow
members and a second high tension state in which said plurality of
hollow members are forced together so that there is substantially
no relative movement between the hollow members; an actuation means
adapted to apply different tensile forces on said tensional means;
whereby in the first low tension state, the bimodal hose is in a
flexible mode and in the second high tension state, the bimodal
hose is maintained in a rigid state.
2. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least
one flexible tube is adapted to convey fluid.
3. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tensional
means is a cable connected to said actuation means.
4. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 3, wherein said cable
passes through said flexible tube.
5. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 4, wherein said cable is
substantially concentric in respect to said flexible tube.
6. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said actuation
means is a mechanical actuator.
7. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said actuation
means is a mechanical actuator and said tensional means is a cable
and wherein said mechanical actuator has a movable element moved by
a pivoting lever wherein said movable element is connected to said
cable.
8. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said actuation
means is a hydraulic actuator.
9. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 8, wherein said actuation
means is a linear hydraulic actuator fluidically connected to water
mains and wherein said tensional means is a cable and wherein a
movable piston provided in said linear hydraulic actuator is
connected to said cable and wherein movements of said movable
piston are responsive to routing of water in said linear hydraulic
actuator.
10. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 9, wherein said linear
hydraulic actuator is provided with a check valve adapted to
prevent drainage of water from said linear hydraulic actuator when
there is no water supply.
11. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 9, wherein said water
mains supplies water to said flexible tube through a bypass tube
bypassing said linear hydraulic actuator.
12. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 8, wherein said actuation
means is a linear hydraulic actuator comprising a movable housing
fluidically connected to water mains and wherein said tensional
means is a cable connected to a piston provided in said movable
housing and wherein movements of said housing are responsive to
routing of water into said linear hydraulic actuator so that in the
second high tension state said movable housing pushes said
plurality of adjacently engages members one onto the other.
13. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 8, wherein said hydraulic
actuator is selected from a group of actuators such as rotary
actuator, motors, converters and linear actuators.
14. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 8, wherein a selector is
provided, said selector is adapted to control the flow of fluid to
said hydraulic actuator so as to control the operation of said
hydraulic actuator.
15. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 14, wherein said selector
is selected from a group of selectors such as a linear selector and
a rotary selector.
16. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of
said plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members having a third
end in a nose portion and a fourth end in a second portion is
defined by spherical face at said third end and outer annular
cylindrical surface of said nose portion, a spherical outer surface
between said nose portion and said second portion, an annular
tapered surface at said fourth end and a cylindrical inner surface
and inner spherical shoulder in said second portion.
17. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of
said plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members having a third
end in a nose portion and a fourth end in a second portion is
defined by convex surface at said third end and outer annular
cylindrical surface of said nose portion, a spherical outer surface
between said nose portion and said second portion, an annular
tapered surface at said fourth end and a cylindrical inner surface
and inner concaved shoulder in said second portion.
18. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 16 wherein said convex
surface is substantially parallel to said inner concaved
shoulder.
19. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 16, wherein said convex
surface and said inner concaves shoulder are substantially
perpendicular.
20. The bimodal hose as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bimodal
hose is connected at said first end to a shower head and at said
second end to water mains.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to flexible hoses. More
particularly, the present invention relates to universal hose
having interchangeable flexible mode and rigid mode.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] There are two main types of indoor bathing, bathing in a
shower and bathing in a bathtub. In both, the person can be sprayed
with water by a showerhead that is attached to the water mains
through a shower hose. Basically, there are two types of shower
hoses attached to showerheads. The first is a fixed showerhead that
is adapted mostly for bathing in a shower and is screwed onto the
top end of a shower riser. The second type includes a shower hose
extension that allows movement between rigid links and by pivotal
joints. These two types are well known in the art.
[0003] The shower hose extensions that are flexible are usually
provided with a holder that allows suspending the sprayer when the
user is bathing. Supporters were developed and as an example one
can see a shower support disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,276,003
"Adjustable Support for a Shower" by Knapp. The adjustable support
for a shower includes a rod installed substantially in a vertical
position, which is supported near its midpoint by a support bracket
integrally formed with a mixing valve handle assembly. This and
other similar types of supports enable the user to adjust the
shower head only in one direction.
[0004] Shower hoses constructed of hollow beads were developed in
order to assemble a shower hose that is more flexible and
comfortable. Enhanced flexibility and applications of the hose made
of jointed beads is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,620,352 "Flexible Tube
having a Number of Joints" and in GB patent no. 2,317,641 "A
Flexible Tube Made of Repeated Sections" both disclosed by Tzong.
The flexible tube includes a number of joint members each having a
neck portion of a reduced diameter formed between a spherical
member and a semi-spherical member. The joint members have a hollow
passage.
[0005] There were attempts to develop an adjustable shower hose
made of joint members that allows the user to adjust the 3-D
positioning of the shower head. Example of a configurable hose is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,164,570 "Self-Supporting
Reconfigurable Hose" by Smeltzer. The reconfigurable
self-supporting hose allows the user to select the position of the
sprayer, as well as the direction of the water spray from the
sprayer, or shower head. The position of the shower head and the
direction of spray from the shower head can be adjusted to remain
in the desired position until modified by the user. Another example
is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,614,569 "Flexible Shower Arm
Assembly" by Hollinshead. The patented flexible shower arm assembly
allows the user to repeatedly adjust the position of the shower
head in three dimensions by configuring the shape of the shower arm
attached between the water source and the water dispenser. The
hoses based on the principles disclosed in the patent documents are
relatively rigid structures that are reconfigured manually by
applying force on the parts of the hose. These types of structures
are limited to relatively short arms, and fail to hold the desired
structure of hose if the joints become loose.
[0006] There is a need for a hose that can be changed from a fully
flexible hose to a fully rigid hose so that the hose can be
reformed in a 3D structure very easily and according to specific
needs.
[0007] The hose of the present invention can be used for other
applications such as passageway for electrical wires or other wires
that have to be transferred from one end to the other. An example
for such an application is a microphone hose that can be in a rigid
mode when desired and can be transferred from place to place in the
flexible mode.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
bimodal flexible-rigid hose that is adapted to easily convert
between a flexible mode and a rigid mode.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
bimodal flexible-rigid hose allowing the user to convert a flexible
hose into a rigid hose in any direction or height so as to enable
the user to direct the water spray at any direction.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a bimodal flexible-rigid hose in which the conversion between the
flexible mode and the rigid mode is actuated in a mechanical manner
or in a hydraulic manner.
[0011] It is an additional object of the present invention to
provide a bimodal flexible-rigid hose made of adjacently engaged
members designed so as to allow the use of a relatively long
hose.
[0012] It is thus provided in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention a flexible-rigid bimodal hose,
said bimodal hose comprising:
[0013] a plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members defining a
hose having a first end, a second end, and an elongated hollow;
[0014] a flexible tube passing through said elongated hollow
extending from said first end to said second end;
[0015] a tensional means extending from said first end to said
second end, wherein said tensional means have a first low tension
state in which each one of said plurality of adjacently engaged
hollow members is rotating in respect to neighboring hollow members
and a second high tension state in which said plurality of hollow
members are forced together so that there is substantially no
relative movement between the hollow members;
[0016] an actuation means adapted to apply different tensile forces
on said tensional means;
[0017] whereby in the first low tension state, the bimodal hose is
in a flexible mode and in the second high tension state, the
bimodal hose is maintained in a rigid state.
[0018] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said flexible tube is adapted to convey
fluid.
[0019] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said actuation means is a mechanical
actuator.
[0020] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said actuation means is a hydraulic
actuator.
[0021] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said actuation means is a linear
hydraulic actuator fluidically connected to water mains and wherein
said tensional means is a cable and wherein a movable piston
provided in said linear hydraulic actuator is connected to said
cable and wherein movements of said movable piston is responsive to
routing of water in said linear hydraulic actuator.
[0022] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, a selector is provided, said selector is
adapted to control the flow of water to said linear hydraulic
actuator so as to control the movement of said movable piston.
[0023] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said water mains supplies water to said
flexible tube through a bypass tube bypassing said linear hydraulic
actuator.
[0024] Furthermore, in accordacne with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, at least one of said plurality of
adjacently engaged hollow members having a third end in a nose
portion and a fourth end in a second portion is defined by
spherical face at said third end and outer annular cylindrical
surface of said nose portion, a spherical outer surface between
said nose portion and said second portion, an annular tapered
surface at said fourth end and a cylindrical inner surface and
inner spherical shoulder in said second portion.
[0025] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, at least one of said plurality of
adjacently engaged hollow members having a third end in a nose
portion and a fourth end in a second portion is defined by convex
surface at said third end and outer annular cylindrical surface of
said nose portion, a spherical outer surface between said nose
portion and said second portion, an annular tapered surface at said
fourth end and a cylindrical inner surface and inner concaved
shoulder in said second portion.
[0026] Furthermore, in accordacne with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said convex surface is substantially
parallel to said inner concaved shoulder.
[0027] Furthermore, in accordance with another preferred embodiment
of the present invention, said convex surface and said inner
concaves shoulder are substantially perpendicular.
[0028] Additionally, in accordance with another preferred
embodiment of the present invention, said bimodal hose is connected
at one end to a shower head and at a secnd end to water mains.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0029] In order to better understand the present invention and
appreciate its practical applications, the following Figures are
attached and references herein. Like components are denoted by like
reference numerals.
[0030] It should be noted that the figures are given as examples
and preferred embodiments only and in no way limit the scope of the
present invention as defined in the appending Description and
Claims.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a bathtub provided with a mechanically
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross sectional view of both ends of
the mechanically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in FIG.
1.
[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of both ends of the
mechanically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in FIG.
1.
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of the
mechanical actuator of the bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in
FIG. 1, in a released state.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of the
mechanical actuator of the bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in
FIG. 1, in a locked state.
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates a bathtub provided with a hydraulically
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of both ends of
the hydraulically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in
FIG. 6.
[0038] FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of both ends of the
hydraulically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in FIG.
6.
[0039] FIG. 9a illustrates a cross sectional view of the hydraulic
actuator shown in FIG. 6, allowing flexibility to the hose.
[0040] FIG. 9b illustrates the hydraulic actuator shown in FIG. 9a
in a state that maintains the hose in a rigid state.
[0041] FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the linear selector
used in the hydraulic actuator shown in FIG. 6.
[0042] FIG. 11a illustrates a cross sectional view of a hydraulic
actuator in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, in a state imparts rigidity of the hose.
[0043] FIG. 11b illustrates the hydraulic actuator shown in FIG.
11a in a state that maintains the hose flexible.
[0044] FIG. 11c illustrates the D-D cross sectional view of the
hydraulic actuator shown in FIG. 11d.
[0045] FIG. 11d illustrates a perspective view of the hydraulic
actuator shown in FIGS. 11a-c.
[0046] FIGS. 12-17 illustrate different types of hollow members
engaged in a bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with
preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0047] FIGS. 18-19 illustrate two types of members engaged into
hoses in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present
invention.
[0048] FIG. 20 illustrates a bathtub provided with a hydraulically
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 21 illustrates a shower provided with a hydraulically
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 22 illustrates a sink provided with a hydraulically
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0051] FIGS. 23a-b illustrate cross sectional views of a selector
to be incorporated in the hose assembly in two operating modes in
accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0052] FIGS. 23-26 illustrate cross sectional views of hydraulic
actuators to be incorporated in the hose assembly in accordance
with preferred embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND FIGURES
[0053] The present invention provides a new and unique bimodal
flexible-rigid hose that can be used in a wide range of
applications where there is a need for a flexible hose or arm that
can be easily converted by the user to a rigid hose. For example,
the bimodal hose of the present invention can be used as a hand
held shower arm suitable for use in a shower or a bathtub. The
bimodal flexible-rigid hose can be used in the flexible mode while
the hose can be "frozen" in any shape to the rigid mode in any
instant in which the user wants free hands and stationary hose. The
conversion between the flexible mode and the rigid mode is very
easy. The user can convert the mode while the water is sprayed to a
desired direction and the shower head is in a comfortable height.
The user can reshape the hose or return to the flexible mode in any
desired instant.
[0054] The bimodal flexible-rigid hose of the present invention
comprises a plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members that
form a tube defined by a first end and a second end. A flexible
hose passes through the hollow in the members and extends from the
first end to the second end, however, the hose can be used as a
passageway for other purposes other than transferring water. The
flexible hose is adapted to convey water from one end of the tube
to the other end. The bimodal hose further comprises a tensional
means also extending from the first end to the second end. The
tensional means has two extreme positions wherein in the first
position, the tensional means maintains low tension between the
engaged members. Low tension between the engaged members maintains
the bimodal hose in a flexible mode. In the second position of the
tensional means, the engaged members are forced together so as to
substantially eliminate relative movement between the members so
that the bimodal hose becomes rigid.
[0055] Actuation means is provided so as to allow the conversion
between the low tension state and the high tension state. Two
preferred actuation means are disclosed herein; a mechanical
actuator and a hydraulic actuator. The mechanical actuator
comprises a push-pull handle that alternates the tensional means,
which is a cable, between a loose position and a tensed position.
In the hydraulic mechanism, the pressure of the water activates the
tensional means.
[0056] In one aspect of the present invention, a mechanical
actuator is used in order to convert the bimodal flexible-rigid
hose from a flexible mode to a rigid one and vice versa.
[0057] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 illustrating a bathtub
provided with a mechanically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Shower arm assembly 50 is incorporated with a lever 40 of a
bathtub. Shower arm assembly 50 comprises a bimodal hose 30 that
connects the water mains to showerhead 41 while lever 40 controls
the flow of the water from the mains. Bimodal hose 30 is defined by
a first end 31 provided with mechanical actuator 90 and second end
32 connected to a showerhead 41. Bimodal hose 30 is formed of
adjacently engages hollow members as will be comprehensively
explained herein after.
[0058] Reference is now made to FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrating a cross
sectional view and an exploded view, respectively, of both ends of
the mechanically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in FIG.
1. Bimodal hose 30 comprises a plurality of adjacently engaged
hollow members 35 and 36 having a tapered shape so as to allow each
consequent member to be partially threaded inside the hollow of its
neighboring member. A flexible tube 43 pass through the hole formed
in bimodal hose 30 wherein water is adapted to pass through
flexible tube 43 from the water mains to showerhead 41. A cable 38
is provided substantially concentric within flexible tube 43. Cable
38 acts as a tensional means. At second end 32, cable 38 is fixedly
connected. Cable 38 is provided with a cable gripper 47 that is
firmly held in a connecting thread 42 that is connected to
showerhead 41. A perforated retainer nut 58 and a gasket 52 confine
cable gripper 47 in a stable platform-like structure.
[0059] The other end of cable 38 is movable; therefore, it is
connected to mechanical actuator 90. Mechanical actuator 90
comprises an outer stable tube 37 and an inner movable tube 45
wherein cable gripper 500 is kept concentric within outer tube 37
by a flange nut 48. Outer tube 37 and inner tube 45 are both
provided with corresponding bores and slots adapted to enable a
lever 39 to pivot about a pin 56 that is inserted through bore 59
and corresponding slot 78 and to allow a linear movement of inner
tube 45 within outer tube 37. Lever 39 is provided on both sides
with two arms 54 that pivot about pin 55 inserted within slot 79 of
outer tube 37 and slot 77 of inner tube 45. Pins 57 connect arms 54
to lever 39. Inner tube 45 is confined within outer tube 37 by
external thread 85 that is threaded to flange nut 48 and external
thread 86 that is threaded onto an adjustable cap 46. Disk 51 is
provided to adjustable cap 46.
[0060] In order to better understand the mechanism of lever 39,
reference is now made to FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrating partial cross
sectional views of the mechanical actuator of the bimodal
flexible-rigid hose shown in FIG. 1, in a released state and a
locked state, respectively. In FIG. 4, lever 39 is in a released
position and cable 38 is in a low tension state. In order to employ
tension on cable 38, lever 39 is pivoted about pin 56 causing arms
54 to pivot about pins 57 forcing pin 55 to slide in a linear
manner within slot 79. The linear movement of pin 55 pushes
adjustable cap 46 that in turn pulls inner tube 45 and cable 38 so
as to establish a high tensile force on the cable (high tension
state).
[0061] Returning to FIGS. 2 and 3, when cable 38 is in a high
tension state, hollow members 35 and 36 are forced together into a
position in which there is substantially no relative movement
between the members. In this state, bimodal hose 30 is rigid. In
the low tension state, hollow members 35 and 36 are adapted to move
one in respect to its consequent member so as to establish a
flexible hose.
[0062] Outer tube 37 is provided with a bore 501 on its lateral
side. The water supply that branches out of faucet 502 is connected
to bore 501 through a shower pipe nut 34, a bushing 53, and a
gasket 52. Water coming through pipe nut 34 flows through a portion
of outer tube 37 and into flexible tube 43 and are sprayed through
showerhead 41.
[0063] In another aspect of the present invention, the conversion
between the flexible mode and the rigid mode is hydraulically
actuated. The pressure of the water coming from the water mains is
used in order to actuate a diaphragm having a position in which
tensile force is employed on the tensional means so as to establish
a rigid mode and a position in which there is substantially no
force on the tensional means and a flexible mode of the bimodal
hose is established.
[0064] Reference is now made to FIG. 6 illustrating a bathtub
provided with a hydraulically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Shower arm assembly 25 is incorporated with a lever 40 of a
bathtub. Shower arm assembly 25 comprises a bimodal hose 30 that
connects the water mains to showerhead 41 while lever 40 controls
the flow of the water from the mains. Bimodal hose 30 is defined by
a first end 31 provided with hydraulic actuator 100 and second end
32 connected the showerhead 41. Bimodal hose 30 is similar in the
embodiment shown herein before.
[0065] Reference is now made to FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrating a cross
sectional view and an exploded view, respectively, of both ends of
the hydraulically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose shown in
FIG. 6. Second end 32 and its connection to showerhead 41 is
similar to the embodiment described herein before. First end 31 is
connected to a hydraulic actuator 100 adapted to convert cable 38
from a low tension state in which the bimodal hose is in a flexible
position to a high tension state in which the bimodal hose id in a
rigid position and vice versa.
[0066] Hydraulic actuator 100 comprises a housing 102 accommodating
a movable piston 103. Piston 103 divides housing 102 into an upper
chamber 105b and lower chamber 105a. The piston is provided with a
stem 104 that is connected to cable 38 through cable gripper 500
and nut 48, which is threaded onto stem 104 by external thread 107.
Piston 103 is provided with a gasket 108 preventing the passage of
water through the piston's circumference. Piston's stem 104 is
provided also with a gasket 109. Water coming from the water mains
through shower pipe nut 34 is directed partially through a bypass
tube 112 bypassing hydraulic actuator 100 and flowing to flexible
tube 43. Water directed to chambers 105a or 105b of hydraulic
actuator 100 force piston 103 to move between the chambers while
the volume of each chamber is changed according to the movement of
the piston.
[0067] In order to better understand the hydraulic mechanism,
reference is now made to FIG. 9a illustrating a cross sectional
view of the hydraulic actuator shown in FIG. 7, allowing
flexibility to the hose, and FIG. 9b illustrating the hydraulic
actuator shown in FIG. 9a in a state that maintains the hose in a
rigid state. Water from the water mains passes to hydraulic
actuator 100 through a linear selector 150. The user can select
using selector 150 the selected mode of the hose as will be
elaborated herein after. In FIG. 9b, there is water pressure from
the mains towards chamber 105b and the piston is close to housing
cover 161. Cable 38 is maintained in a high tension state forcing
hollow members 35 and 36 together substantially with no relative
movements between them. This positioning of the hollow members
maintains bimodal hose in a rigid state. FIG. 9a illustrates the
positioning of piston 103 when water pressures the piston to move
away from housing cover 161. Selector 150 directs the water to
chamber 105a that is now filled with water. In this state, cable 38
is loose and allows freedom between hollow members 35 and hollow
members 36 so that a flexible mode of bimodal hose 30 is
maintained.
[0068] In order to better understand the selector role, reference
is now made to FIG. 10 illustrating an enlarged view of the linear
selector used in the hydraulic actuator shown in FIG. 7. Selector
150 is adapted to direct the water to the corresponding side of the
piston so as to select the mode of the bimodal hose. Several water
passages pass through selector's housing 152. A water inlet chamber
164 is connected to the water mains and fluidically communicates
between a pressurized water inlet 158 and a check valve 200 mounted
in inlet chamber 164 (the check valve is clearly shown in FIGS. 7
and 9). A first pressurized outlet 159 and a second pressurized
outlet 160 fluidically communicates with chambers 105a and 105b,
respectively, of hydraulic actuator 100. Housing 152 is further
provided with a first drain outlet 156 and a second drain outlet
157.
[0069] A plunger 151 provided within housing 152 can be moved so as
to determine the flow of water through selector 150 in the
following manner: in the first operation mode, plunger 151 is
pushed into position shown in FIG. 9b. In this position, inlet
chamber 164 is fluidically communicating with pipe connection line
113 through outlet 160. Drain 157 is fluidically blocked and drain
156 is fluidically communicating with outlet 159. In the second
mode, plunger 151 is pulled into the position shown in FIG. 9a. In
this state, inlet chamber 164 is fluidically communicating with
outlet 159 while drain 156 is fluidically blocked and drain 157
becomes fluidically communicating with outlet 160. Selector 150 is
provided with six seals 162 and five perforated spacers 163.
[0070] Other selectors such as a rotary selector or combined
linear-rotary selectors can be employed in the hydraulic actuator
of the present invention. An example is shown in FIGS. 23a-b
illustrating a cross sectional view of a rotary selector in two
operating modes. Rotary selector 350 comprises a housing 352 having
an internal annular surface that is provided with several water
passages: fluid inlet 353, fluid outlets 354 and 357 and fluid
drains 355 and 356. Housing 352 is provided with manually rotating
valve 351 that can be rotated by lever 360. Two operating modes can
be established using rotary selector 350: FIG. 23a illustrates a
first operating mode in which inlet 353 fluidically communicates
with outlet 357 through passage 359. Drain 356 is fluidically
blocked and drain 355 is fluidically communicating with outlet 354
through passage 358. In the mode illustrated in FIG. 23b, inlet 353
fluidically communicates with outlet 354 through passage 358, drain
355 is fluidically blocked and drain 356 is fluidically
communicating with outlet 357 through passage 359. Connecting
rotary selector 350 to hydraulic actuator 100 can enable the user
to select the characteristics of his bimodal flexible-rigid
hose.
[0071] Returning to FIGS. 9a and b, the conversion between the
rigid mode and the flexible mode is as follows: in order to achieve
a flexible mode, plunger 151 is pulled outwardly. The pressurized
water supplied. through check valve 200 flows to chamber 105a
through outlet 159 forcing piston 103 to move away from cover 161
while the water from chamber 105b flows out via outlet 157. As a
result, cable 38 is released enabling hollow members 35,36 to
rotate with respect to each other and the bimodal hose 30 to be in
a flexible mode. In order to convert to the rigid mode, plunger 151
is pushed inwardly causing the pressurized water supplied through
check valve 200 to communicate with chamber 105b through pipe line
113 forcing piston 103 towards cover 161. Water from chamber 105a
is forced out via drain outlet 156 and the water in chamber 105b
cannot drain due to check valve 200. As a result, tensile force is
employed on cable 38 causing hollow members 35,36 to be stacked
together with no relative movements between the members so as to
establish a rigid hose.
[0072] The water doesn't drain from chamber 105b also when the
water supply is stopped. This is to assure that when the water is
closed via valve 40, bimodal hose 30 will stay in its rigid mode
and won't collapse. Returning to flexible mode is performed by the
user in a controlled manner.
[0073] Reference is now made to FIG. 11a illustrating a cross
sectional view of a hydraulic actuator in accordance with another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in a state that
maintains the hose rigid and FIG. 11b illustrating the hydraulic
actuator shown in FIG. 11a in a state that allows flexibility of
the hose. Basically, hydraulic actuator 250 is similar to actuator
100, however, in hydraulic actuator 250, piston plate 253 is
stationary while cylinder housing 252 is linearly movable. The
piston's body is provided with bores enabling fluidal communication
between the water passages in selector 150 and the hydraulic
actuator 250. Hydraulic actuator is provided with two pressure
chambers 258 and 259b that act simultaneously on cylinder 252 so as
to actually double the effective area of the piston without
increasing its diameter.
[0074] The water actuate hydraulic actuator 250 as follows:
referred to FIG. 11c pressurized water is supplied from a fluid
source such as water mains (not shown in the Figure) into inlet 205
and flows along line 112, bore 210 and tube 43 to showerhead 41
(shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). When the user wishes to convert bimodal
hose into a rigid hose, he pushes plunger 151 inwardly (FIG. 11a).
This causes the pressurized water supplied through check valve 200
and outlet 160 to fluidically communicate with chambers 258, 259b
through line 211, forcing cylinder housing 252 to move away from
selector 150. Water in chamber 259a are forced out via drain outlet
156. The water in chambers 258, 259b is fluidically blocked by
check valve 200. As a result, a relatively high tensile force is
applied on cable 38 causing bimodal hose 30 to be in a rigid state.
Similarly to the principle in the former embodiment, flexibility is
attained by receiving water in chamber 259a.
[0075] Reference is now made to FIG. 11d illustrating the hydraulic
actuator shown in FIGS. 11a-c in a perspective view. It can be seen
that in this configuration, the outer shape of the actuator is
uniform.
[0076] Reference is now made to FIGS. 23-26 illustrating cross
sectional views of hydraulic actuators to be incorporated in the
hose assembly in accordance with preferred embodiments of the
present invention. FIG. 23 illustrates a fluid operated rotary
actuator 300 that can be employed in the hydraulic activated
bimodal hose of the present invention. Actuator 300 comprises a
housing 301 provided with rotating pointer 303 that is attached and
fixed to shaft 304 by key 305. Housing 301 further comprises a
buffer 308 and fluid inlet/outlet 310a and b, respectively.
Directing the fluid through the actuator can be maintained by shaft
rotation according to the arrow.
[0077] FIG. 24 illustrates a fluid operated rotary actuator 325
that converts linear motion into rotating motion and vice versa.
Actuator 325 comprises a cylinder 326 having end caps 328 a and b
having fluid inlet/outlet 332a and b, respectively. A movable
engaged piston 327 having a rack 329 resides within cylinder 326.
Rack 329 is meshed with circular gear teeth of a pinion 330 fixedly
connected to shaft 331 by a key 334. Rack 329 is pushed in linear
motion as piston 327 moves by pressurized fluid flow controlled
through inlet/outlet 332 a and b, respectively, forcing pinion 330
and shaft 331 to rotate. Shaft 331 can be connected to a tensional
means such as a cable in order to convert a bimodal hose as shown
herein before from flexible mode to rigid mode and vice versa.
[0078] FIG. 25 illustrates another possibility of hydraulic
actuator 400 in which rotary selector valve 350 that was described
herein before is employed. Selector valve 350 controls the fluid
flow so as to convert actuator 325 by fluid lines 401 and 402.
Cable 38 of a bimodal hose is connected to pulley 403, fixedly
connected to rotating shaft 331 as described herein before. Again,
the actuator converts the bimodal hose from flexible mode to a
rigid mode, respectively.
[0079] FIG. 26 illustrates another hydraulic actuator 450 wherein
selector valve 350 is implemented again and controls the fluid flow
through lines 501 and 502 to hydraulic motor 450. Similarly to
previous embodiments, connecting the actuator to a cable provided
in a bimodal hose can actuate the conversion between a flexible
mode and a rigid mode.
[0080] It should be mentioned that other types of actuators can be
used, mechanical, hydraulic or any other type without limiting the
scope of the present invention.
[0081] Reference is now made to FIGS. 12-17 illustrating different
types of hollow members engaged in a bimodal flexible-rigid hose in
accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 12 illustrates a hollow member 36 defined by spherical face 80
at one end, outer annular cylindrical surface 81, a spherical outer
surface 71, and an internal cavity 75. The other end is defined by
a tube part 82 having an annular tapered surface 72, a cylindrical
inner surface 84, and inner spherical shoulder 83. Each hollow
member can be pivoted and rotated with respect to adjacent hollow
member on 3D basis. Outer spherical face 80 and corresponding inner
spherical shoulder 83 of the adjacent member are adjacently
arranged so that relative movement is prevented when the members
are in the rigid mode. The extent of bending of the members one in
respect to the other is limited due to a nose formed by the
cylindrical portion defined by outer annular cylindrical surface 81
that rotates adjacently to cylindrical inner surface 84. The nose
rotates freely within the limits determined by cylindrical inner
surface 84 of tube part 82.
[0082] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate hollow members 35 and 33
respectively that are similarly defined, however, the rotational
movement between neighboring hollow members is limited to only 2D
due to asymmetry of surface 70 and inner surface 73 (concaved
planes). Surface 70 can be parallel to inner surface 73 in the same
manner as shown in member 33 in FIG. 14 or surface 70 can be
perpendicular to inner surface 73 similar to member 35 in FIG. 13.
If one uses adjacent members such as member 35 shown in FIG. 13, it
is possible to form a hose in which the movement between each two
consequent members is in a different plane. Alternatively, there
can be any intermediate angle between surface 70 and inner surface
73 so as to accord any desired angles and possibilities of hoses
rigidity.
[0083] FIGS. 15, 16, and 17 illustrate similar hollow members
having inserts 87, 89 and 91, respectively. The inserts further
limit the rotational movement between the hollow members. The
structure of the members limits the rotational movement of the
members in the interior of the other when they are engaged
together. When the inner surface of the member is asymmetrical as
shown in FIG. 14, members 33, the part of the hose made of such
members is not rotating on a 3D basis, but only in 2D. This allows
using and controlling a relatively long and thick hose.
[0084] Reference is now made to FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrating two
types of members engaged into a hose in accordance with preferred
embodiments of the present invention. The asymmetry of the hollow
members as well as the inserts is designated for preventing
disengagement of the hollow beads and enable the use of relatively
longer bimodal hose. FIG. 18 illustrates bent hose made of
symmetrical hollow members 36 and FIG. 19 illustrates a bent hose
made of asymmetrical hollow members 35.
[0085] Reference is now made to FIGS. 20, 21, and 22 illustrating a
bathtub, a shower, and a sink, respectively, provided with a
hydraulically actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose in accordance
with another preferred embodiments of the present invention. FIG.
20 illustrates a bathtub provided with a hydraulically actuated
bimodal flexible-rigid hose. It is optional to provide an
additional hose 508 between the water mains controlled by lever 40
and shower arm assembly 25. In this way, first end 31 of bimodal
hose 30 and hydraulic actuator 100 can be connected to the wall or
any other element that is in a distant from the water supply.
[0086] FIG. 21 illustrates a shower provided with a hydraulic
actuated bimodal flexible-rigid hose. Shower arm assembly 25 can be
provided also in a shower held by a support 509. Additional hose
508 connects the mains water supply to bimodal hose 30 through nut
34. Similarly, sink 507 is provided with shower arm assembly
25.
[0087] It should be clear that the bimodal flexible-rigid hose of
the present invention can be used in any application other than
household purposes. Due to the unique features of the bimodal hose
of the present invention, the bimodal hose can be connected to any
water pressure supply whether mechanically actuated or
hydraulically actuated.
[0088] The hose assembly of the present invention can be used also
for other purposes besides water transfer. For example,
transferring electrical wires or other wires from one spot to the
other can be performed in the hose of the present invention. In
this case, obviously, mechanical actuator is employed.
[0089] It should be clear that the description of the embodiments
and attached Figures set forth in this specification serves only
for a better understanding of the invention, without limiting its
scope as covered by the following Claims.
[0090] It should also be clear that a person skilled in the art,
after reading the present specification can make adjustments or
amendments to the attached Figures and above described embodiments
that would still be covered by the following Claims.
* * * * *